Consumer Advocacy

The Department recognizes that consumers must be active participates in their own treatment and supports programs that empower consumers.

Peer Specialist Training

Peer support is meant to enrich behavioral health services through the participation and expertise of people who share their experience with behavioral illness and journey to recovery. The Office of Consumer and Family Affairs works with consumer led partners to enhance the training and role of peer specialists. To learn more about peer specialists training opportunities, contact the Office of Consumer and Family Affairs at (202) 673-4377.

Peer Operated Services

Consumer Education, Training and Advocacy 

A number of consumer led, advocacy organizations help consumers and their families understand their illness and their rights. Further, they promote leadership and empowerment so consumers can be active participants in their own recovery and influence the behavioralhealth system.

The Office of Consumer and Family Affairs partners with the following organizations to provide education and training opportunities to support recovery and resiliency: